News: ‘Salute to Service’: Military members attend Washington Redskins practice

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Trae King, 633rd Air Base Wing command chief, smiles for a photo with Andre Roberts, Washington Redskins wide receiver, after a training camp practice in Richmond, Va., Aug. 11, 2014. The event sponsored by USAA featured breakfast, goodie bags, a front-row seat to the practice and a meet-and-greet with team players. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Aubrey White/released)

After being treated to a catered breakfast, the military members were escorted by Redskins owner, Dan Snyder and General Manager Bruce Allen, to the far sideline where they watched the team practice.

“USAA’s hosting of Service members at today’s Washington Redskins training camp practice demonstrates USAA’s commitment to creating memorable military appreciation experiences through our status as the Official Military Appreciation Sponsor of the NFL and the Washington Redskins,” said Scott Molina, a military affairs spokesman with USAA.

Immediately following the practice, the Soldiers, Airmen and Sailors lined up for a chance to meet team players, receive their autographs and take pictures with them. Team quarterback and former military dependent, Robert Griffin III, took a “selfie” with the group and expressed his appreciation.

“Having the military here is amazing -- it’s close to my heart,” Griffin said. “My mom and dad both served and it’s a different life and if you haven’t lived it or experienced it, then you don’t quite understand what it’s like.

“I definitely take my hat off to them and am excited that they are here.”

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Donnie Dionisio, 1st Maintenance Group quality assurance inspector, said he felt honored that USAA and the Redskins took the time to show appreciation for what military members do – a sentiment voiced by the majority of Service members in attendance.

USAA offered the opportunity to military installations in the Washington area.